Bangladesh announces import ban on certain products from India, Nepal and Bhutan
DHAKA : The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has imposed a ban on the import of several products from India, Nepal, and Bhutan. According to a new gazette notification issued on Sunday, restrictions have been placed on the import of yarn, powdered milk, tobacco, newsprint, various types of paper, and paperboard, among other products, reports Bangla Tribune.
This directive came from the Customs Wing of the NBR. According to the notification, all products except yarn and potatoes produced and processed in Nepal and Bhutan will be allowed for import.
However, in the case of India, a more extensive list of products has been banned. These include duplex board, newsprint, kraft paper, cigarette paper, fish, yarn, potatoes, powdered milk, tobacco, radio and TV parts, bicycle and motor parts, Formica sheets, ceramicware, sanitaryware, stainless steelware, marble slabs and tiles, and mixed fabrics.
However, the notification clarifies that VAT-registered bidi (local cigarette) manufacturing industries will be allowed to import raw tobacco stems.
Additionally, certain serial numbers in the previously issued SRO No 297-Law/2024/89/Customs have been amended.
The product list has been updated, but the provision for “all exportable products” remains unchanged.
The notification says that it will come into effect immediately.
According to customs sources, this ban has been imposed to protect local industries and to prevent illegal re-exporting or rerouting of goods.
The main objective is to ensure competitiveness for domestic industries, especially in the textile, paper, and ceramic sectors.
However, some business groups expressed concern about the impact of this ban, noting that sourcing products from alternative markets could increase costs, which may ultimately affect consumers.
Although the NBR has not provided a detailed explanation, the decision is believed to be part of pre-budget revenue management and efforts to protect domestic industries.